Plastic Electrical Boxes Vs Metal

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Plastic electrical boxes vs metal.

Today we will share significance of plastic electrical box vs metal electrical box. Spruce tue may 02 2017 7 27 pm shannon wrote. This may be achieved by use of a switch with ground connection. In areas where metal conduit is not used which is most of the country grounding is provided by a grounding wire and the box metal or plastic serves no purpose in the grounding system.

Both plastic and metal boxes come in a full range of types and sizes for both indoor and outdoor applications. Cut about a 4 6 length of channel attatch to wall and clamp the conduit to it. Many local building codes require metal junction boxes because they are durable and ensure long lasting performance. In many cases your choice of a metal or plastic electrical box is one of personal preference economy and ease.

On the other hand plastic boxes are more vulnerable to impacts. Where do you guys stand on plastic vs metal electrical boxes for residential use. Plastic both have their advantages and disadvantages. Metal electrical boxes are primarily used with metal sheathed or bx wiring.

Plastic vs metal electrical boxes post by a. So although metal boxes may be more rugged and more resistant to damage they have the potential to make the installation electrically more dangerous. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. The boxes made without metal are pvc or plastic.

Plastic electrical boxes sometimes called junction boxes have plenty of pluses including low cost convenience and ease of installation but they re not the best choice for every application. Plastic electrical box vs metal electrical box. Metal receptacle covers must be grounded even on plastic boxes. Conduit clamps are less then 1 each.

Metal boxes more expensive more variety of sizes and styles do not burn do not break or crack are gangable can be used with conduit and armored mc cable. With plastic boxes that extra thickness under the drywall can leave a bulge. For exposed or shop wiring metal boxes are probably better. I prefer metal but i do use plastic where appropriate.

You ll have to make sure to buy boxes that match the offset of the channel. When plastic doesn t make sense the standard alternative is a metal box. Use a plastic box when you have romex or nm wiring leading in or out of the box. Mcmaster 3310t46 9 for 5.

In a few cases though the choice is clear cut and obvious mainly with respect to grounding. This thread is archived. Metal boxes are usually made of aluminum steel or cast iron. How about a list.

Electrician 3 points 3 years ago.